Trucking Truth Blog: Articles Tagged 'The Economy And Politics'

Trucking Is A Competition Between Drivers. Can You Hang With The Big Dogs?

by Old School

Trucking is a performance-based industry, just like professional sports. Drivers are constantly being measured up with all sorts of statistics and rewarded for their accomplishments. Learn how to distinguish yourself as a driver and stand out from the competition by putting up the proper numbers and making the necessary sacrifices to be the 'Go To Guy'.

Busting The Free Agent Myth In Trucking

by Old School

The Free Agent Myth is often promoted in trucking forums, but it is not as liberating to your trucking career as it sounds. Learn what it takes to become a true Free Agent in the trucking industry, and why signing a work contract is beneficial to your career.

I'm A Trucker. What's Your Superpower?

by Old School

This article provides a three point plan for becoming a successful trucker. Safety, service, and success are the three main points of focus for anyone wanting to become a trucking Super Hero. Learn how to maximize your efforts and become a successful trucker.

What It Takes To Be A Top Tier Driver

by Old School

This article provides insight into why a truck driver may be eligible for a pay increase from a dispatcher's perspective. Being on time, no complaints, taking loads no one else wants, and being easy to work with are all necessary for a pay raise.

The Employment Market For Truck Drivers Is Hyper Competitive

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The employment market for truck drivers is hyper-competitive and wages have been on the rise in recent years. Learn what it takes to become a top tier driver and get your trucking career off to a great start. Study hard, have a great attitude, and stick with your first company for one full year.

Confessions Of An Owner Operator

by Old School

This article examines the confessions of experienced truck owners and lease operators. Learn the risks and rewards of owning a truck and decide if it's right for you. Discover why the author believes it's best to remain a company driver and why the most successful trucking businesses replace their equipment at benchmark mileage levels.

The Hardest Part of Starting a Trucking Career

by Old School

This article discusses the biggest hindrance to success in the trucking industry, which is misinformation. Learn how to recognize and overcome this issue, as well as how to succeed in trucking and make top pay.

The Complete Guide To Pulling A Chemical Tanker

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Hauling a chemical tanker is a complex and stressful job. Learn the answers to frequently asked questions about the dangers, pay, lifestyle, and endorsements needed for hauling a chemical tanker.

Prudence Seems To Be Lacking In Some Rookie Truck Drivers

by Old School

This article discusses the importance of exercising prudence in the trucking industry. It explains the risks involved and the hazards beyond the interstate that new drivers may not be aware of. It also provides an example of a terrifying close call experienced by an experienced driver.

Keepin' Your Cool: Managing Road Rage

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Getting aggravated with other drivers on the highway is commonplace for many drivers, even for truck drivers. Learn the risks of getting emotional on the highway and how to remain unaffected by the stress. Understand the importance of staying calm and how to practice it.

Why I Prefer Paid CDL Training Over Private CDL Training

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Paid CDL training, also known as company-sponsored CDL training, is owned and operated by trucking companies. Private CDL training is a school that is independently owned and operated. Paid CDL training is preferred due to the company's investment in the student, the student's training on the company's equipment, and the company's financial incentive to ensure the student's success.

Drivers Share Their Biggest Misconceptions And Surprises About A Career In Trucking

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Trucking is a misunderstood industry with many misconceptions. Experienced drivers and recruiters share their advice on how to succeed in the trucking industry. Learn the truth about trucking and the responsibilities that come with the job, the lifestyle, and the surprises you may encounter.

The Right Strategy For Earning More Miles And Better Pay

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Truck drivers can get more miles and earn more money by following safety protocols, being on time for appointments, pushing appointment times forward, and communicating well with dispatch. Be friendly and professional to gain an advantage in the competitive trucking industry.

Trucking Has The Longest Job Interview In The World

by G-Town

The job interview begins the minute you walk into the hotel or your shuttle van. Learn how to make a great impression and ace your interview with these tips and tricks!

Important Tips When Going On The Road With A Trainer Or Going Solo

by G-Town

This article provides truck drivers and those in the trucking industry with tips on preparing for life on the road. Advice includes getting an understanding with your mentor, planning ahead for trips, and performing pre-trip inspections. Experienced drivers also provide advice on Jake-brake use, backing, and G.O.A.L.

What Is This Thing We Call Trucking?

by Old School

Trucking is not a career for the casual observer. It takes considerable effort to make it in this industry. Learn the truth about trucking from a veteran truck driver and discover the rewards, challenges, and lifestyle of this career.

Trucking At Night Versus During The Day - What Should Your Strategy Be?

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Driving at night versus during the day normally comes down to two factors: preferences and pickup/delivery schedule. Learn how to adjust to an ever-changing schedule, find truck parking, and stay alert while driving.

When Is The Right Time To Become An Owner Operator Or Lease A Truck? Never.

by Old School

This article explains why it is better to stay a company driver than to become an Owner/Operator. It outlines the risks of leasing a truck, the competition in the trucking industry, and the profit statements of large carriers.

6 Ways To Lower Your Blood Pressure For The DOT Physical

by Patrick Netzel

Learn how to lower your blood pressure before a DOT physical with diet, exercise, and lifestyle changes. Get tips on how to get good sleep, drink water, and eat healthy foods like fruits, vegetables, and beet juice. Avoid smoking, drinking, and coffee before the physical.

How To Get Yourself Dispatched 5,000 Miles In One Week

by Old School

Old School, a top-tier truck driver, shares his experience of how he increased his pay by taking initiative and planning ahead. He was able to get dispatched on loads totaling over 5,000 miles in one week. Learn how to become a successful truck driver by understanding the log book rules, managing time efficiently, and being willing to make sacrifices.